Located along the Schuylkill River, the city of Reading, Pennsylvania is a quaint river- front city nestled within the heart of the state. Known for its ties to the Reading Railroad, and the board game Monopoly, this charming city has plenty of character and quirks that make it one of the most popular places to live within the state.

Energy Deregulation in Reading

Electricity prices throughout Reading vary greatly depending on location. Fortunately for residential and business property owners throughout the area, there are ways to save on monthly energy costs. This is because the city of Reading operates an entirely deregulated electricity market.

This effort first began in 1997 and by 2002, an official bill, known as House Bill 1509 was passed in the area deregulating the entire state.

The city?s electrical poles and wires are still manned by the PP&L electric Utility and while the company still manages the distribution of electricity, residents can choose to partner with different suppliers if they want.

This means the opportunity to choose fixed rate plans, variable rate options, short-term plans or energy from renewable resources. Green energy options have become very popular in Reading and providers such as AEP Energy offer residents in this area to receive electricity that is 100% reliant on wind power if they choose.

Reading?s Electricity Providers

Property owners throughout the state that wish to find plans beyond those offered by their state appointed utility can shop for offers from dozens of area retail providers. This allows customers to find the best rates, and the best plans possible to fit their needs.

Reading is serviced by several different retail suppliers, including well known names such as TriEagle Energy, North American Power and XOOM Energy. All of these providers offer different plans and options but are still overseen by the state, meaning residents can shop with confidence knowing they are relying on a dependable company for their energy needs.

History and Culture

Reading is most known for lending its name to the historic Reading Railroad. This railroad was instrumental for the booming coal industry within the state. Over time, when the manufacturing industry was on a downtown throughout the area, the city bounced back becoming one of the first cities to make outlet shopping a tourist draw.

Today, Reading is not only known for its shopping opportunities but for the number of local pretzel bakeries found within this town. The city even coined the nickname ?The Pretzel City? for all of the fresh-made soft dough pretzels created in the area.

Although the city does not have its own professional baseball team, Reading has a long detailed baseball history, and was once home to the Reading Phillies. This has made the Pennsylvania city a popular destination for baseball enthusiasts from around the country.

Population

The city of Reading is home to more than 88,000 residents, with numbers growing year after year. This southern Pennsylvania city is located at the halfway point between the state?s capital Harrisburg and the state?s largest city Philadelphia, making it a popular spot to settle down for those who want to be close to both of these major cities.

Throughout the greater Reading area, residents can find a number of neighborhoods, each with their own unique style and personality. Historic neighborhoods like Prince Historic District and Queen Anne Historic District provide insight to the early days of the city, while neighborhoods such as Hampden Heights, Centre Park and Penn?s Commons offer residential communities for modern families.